Earlier this month, X-Japan took home the award for “Best International Band” at the Golden Gods Awards. While reading the names of the nominees, presenter Joey Belladonna of Anthrax stopped before reading “X-Japan” and said “You know this is a set-up, right?” Ouch. Always one to take the high road, Yoshiki, who accepted the award, didn’t acknowledge the slight. Clearly, Mr. Belladonna didn’t believe they were quite metal enough to beat out the likes of Rammstein and Lacuna Coil, but that’s because he obviously doesn’t know how Yoshiki rolls.
He's Got His Own Comic Book...with Stan Lee - In Image's Blood Red Dragon, Yoshiki didn’t get his powers from an itsy-bitsy spider, either; he got struck by lightning. He also doesn’t have time for regular ol’ groupies. His groupies just so happen to be the Maidens of the Dragon Temple, and, in addition to copious amounts of cleavage, they also wield swords and giant hammers. Did we mention it was co-created by Todd McFarlane and Stan Lee?
He's Fashion Savvy - Not only did Yoshiki produce the Asia Girls Explosion fashion show earlier this year, he also wrote the music for it and showcased his line of kimonos (aptly named “yoshikimono”). This wasn’t a small-time show - guests included A-listers like Marilyn Manson and Olivia Palermo.
He Rocked So Hard He Broke His Own Neck...and Kept Going! - Although the exact details of the injury are disputed (some say he actually broke it and others believe it was simply fractured) what’s clear is this: Yoshiki rocked out so hard, and so often, that his neck actually required major surgery in 2009. Although doctors have repeatedly told him he could end up paralyzed if he continues, he went on two major tours following the surgery. Why? Because he’s metal like that.
Credits: nerdistnews